A major security scare unfolded at Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Monday after a 14-year-old boy was arrested while allegedly attempting to sneak beneath an aircraft in what authorities described as a dangerous stowaway attempt within one of Nigeria’s most sensitive aviation environments.
The teenager, identified as Eke Miracle, was intercepted by security operatives attached to the Nigeria Police Force Airport Command after he was discovered on the airport’s restricted tarmac area while allegedly trying to gain unlawful access beneath an aircraft preparing for operations.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Mohammed Adeola, the incident occurred on March 30, 2026, and constituted a serious breach of aviation security protocols.
Authorities disclosed that preliminary investigations revealed that the minor had illegally gained access into a restricted section of the airport without authorisation, violating Sections 2 and 3 of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria byelaws governing safety and access control at aviation facilities.
“The Airport Police Command intercepted a 14-year-old male, identified as Eke Miracle, in connection with a stowaway attempt at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos,” Adeola stated.
He further explained that the boy was found on the airport’s tarmac area attempting to position himself beneath an aircraft, a development security officials described as extremely dangerous and capable of disrupting aviation operations.
Following his interception, the police said the teenager was immediately taken into protective custody in accordance with legal procedures and child protection protocols. Authorities also confirmed that his parents were promptly contacted and invited to be present during the interview process.
Officials stated that the case is being handled in line with Nigeria’s juvenile justice framework, with authorities confirming that the minor will be arraigned before an appropriate juvenile court.
The Commissioner of Police, Airport Command, Ogunbode, described the airport as a critical national asset requiring strict adherence to security regulations and heightened vigilance at all times.
He also urged parents and guardians to closely monitor the movements of their children, particularly around restricted and high-risk environments such as airports.
Authorities stressed that stowaway attempts pose significant safety risks, not only to individuals involved but also to passengers, crew members, and overall aviation operations.
The Airport Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining safety, security, and order within Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem while ensuring that the rights and welfare of minors are protected.
The incident has once again raised serious concerns about airport perimeter security and access control at one of Nigeria’s busiest international gateways, as security agencies move to prevent similar breaches in the future.